Ask the Doctor

These questions were received following the GKTV Doctors Mic Podcast on Knee Replacement, featuring Prof. Altaf Ahmad Kawoosa, HOD Orthopedics, GMC Srinagar, as the subject expert.

 Q: At what stage of knee pain should one consider knee replacement?

A: Knee replacement is considered when pain becomes severe, persistent, and interferes with daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or sleeping, and when medicines, physiotherapy, and injections no longer provide relief.

Q: Is knee replacement only for very old people?

A: No. Age alone is not a deciding factor. The decision depends on pain severity, joint damage, mobility limitation and quality of life. Even patients in their 50s or early 60s may need surgery if symptoms are disabling.

Q: How long does a knee replacement surgery take?

A: The surgery usually takes 60–90 minutes. With modern techniques, most patients start walking with support within 24 hours.

Q: How painful is knee replacement surgery and recovery?

A: With advanced anesthesia, pain-control protocols and physiotherapy, pain is well managed. Discomfort reduces significantly over 2–4 weeks, and most patients regain good function within 6–8 weeks.

Q: How long does an artificial knee joint last?

A: Modern knee implants typically last 15–25 years, depending on body weight, activity level, and proper post-surgery care.

Q: Will I be able to sit cross-legged or squat after knee replacement?

A: Full squatting and sitting cross-legged are generally not advised after standard knee replacement, as they increase stress on the implant. Modified techniques or special implants may help selected patients, but expectations should be realistic.

Q: What are the risks of knee replacement surgery?

A: Like any major surgery, risks include infection, blood clots, stiffness, implant loosening, and nerve injury. However, with proper surgical protocols, these risks are low.

Q: How soon can I resume normal daily activities after surgery?

A: Most patients resume basic activities within 2–3 weeks and return to routine independent living in 4–6 weeks. Driving is usually safe after 4–6 weeks, depending on recovery.

Q: Do both knees need to be replaced at the same time if both are painful?

A: It depends on overall health, age, and fitness. Simultaneous bilateral replacement is possible in selected patients, but staged surgery (one knee at a time) is safer for many.

Q: Is physiotherapy really necessary after knee replacement?

A: Yes. Physiotherapy is essential for restoring movement, strength, and balance. Skipping rehab can lead to stiffness and poor long-term outcomes.

Q: Can knee replacement fail or need revision surgery?

A: Yes, though uncommon. Failure can occur due to infection, implant wear, loosening, or injury. Revision surgery may be required in such cases.

Q: Are there alternatives to knee replacement?

A: Weight reduction, physiotherapy, pain medications, knee braces, injections (steroids or viscosupplementation), and lifestyle modification may delay surgery in early stages.

NOTE: These responses are for general awareness, not a substitute for medical advice.

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